Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe

Make restaurant-style chicken tenders at home with this Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe! Perfect for game nights, family dinners, or casual gatherings, these chicken tenders are delightfully crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The secret ingredient? Dill pickle juice! This unique addition brings flavor and moisture, making these tenders a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Crispy: The combination of corn starch and flour ensures a crunchy coating that you’ll crave.
• Flavorful: Dill pickle juice adds a tangy kick that elevates the taste, making these tenders unforgettable.
• Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or even in a sandwich. They fit any occasion!
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
• Customizable: Adjust the spices to fit your personal taste; add more cayenne for extra heat or skip it for milder flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. These will help make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or slotted spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan or deep fryer: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture. A good frying pan distributes heat evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without mess. Having multiple sizes helps keep things organized.
• Whisk: Ensures that your egg mixture is blended well for even coating on the chicken tenders.

Ingredients

Make restaurant style chicken tenders at home! Can you guess what secret ingredient I use to make the CRISPIEST fried chicken tenders? You probably already have a container of it in your pantry!

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1 1/2 lbs. chicken tenders (16 tenders or chicken breast cut into strips)
• oil (for frying)
• 3/4 cup dill pickle juice
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 egg

For the Coating

• 3/4 cup corn starch
• 3/4 cup flour
• 2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 1/4 teaspoon seasoning salt
• cayenne pepper (pinch)

For the Dipping Sauce (Optional)

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 Tbsp. BBQ sauce
• splash Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon pickle juice

How to Make Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional)

If making the optional dipping sauce, mix together the mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and pickle juice in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the dill pickle juice, milk, and egg. Add the chicken tenders and ensure they are fully submerged. Let them marinate for about 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

In another bowl, whisk together corn starch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, seasoning salt, and cayenne pepper until well mixed.

Step 4: Heat Oil

In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot enough for frying (about 350°F / 175°C).

Step 5: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Remove each chicken tender from the marinade and let excess liquid drip off. Dredge them in the coating mixture until fully covered. Shake off any excess flour mixture.

Step 6: Fry Until Golden Brown

Carefully place coated chicken tenders into hot oil. Fry for about 6 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them halfway through for even cooking.

Step 7: Drain and Serve

Once cooked, transfer chicken tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your optional dipping sauce if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe, perfect for any gathering or as a delightful weeknight treat!

How to Serve Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe

Serving your Crispiest Chicken Tenders is just as important as making them. Pair your tenders with delicious dips and sides to elevate your meal.

Classic Dipping Sauce

• Mayonnaise Blend: Mix mayonnaise with a splash of pickle juice for a creamy, tangy dip.
• BBQ Sauce: A smoky BBQ sauce complements the crispy texture perfectly.

Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: Toss mixed greens with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a nice contrast to the tender chicken.

Hearty Sides

• French Fries: Golden, crispy fries are a classic side that pairs excellently with chicken tenders.
• Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted sweet potato wedges offer a sweet and savory balance.

How to Perfect Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe

Achieving the perfect crispiness in your chicken tenders takes a bit of technique. Here are some tips to help you get there.

• Use Dill Pickle Juice: Marinating chicken in dill pickle juice adds moisture and flavor, enhancing the tender’s taste.
• Double Dredge: For extra crunch, dip the chicken in egg, then coat it again in the flour mixture before frying.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure your frying oil is hot enough (around 350°F) to achieve that perfect crispy exterior without soaking up excess oil.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Fry in batches to prevent temperature drops and ensure even cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe

Pairing your chicken tenders with the right side dishes can make for a delightful meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Crispy French Fries: Golden fries seasoned perfectly complement the tenders beautifully.
2. Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: The richness of mac and cheese balances out the crispy chicken.
3. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks add a comforting touch alongside your tenders.
4. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide color and nutrition on your plate.
5. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing pairs well with fried foods.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the crispiest chicken tenders is easy, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken in pickle juice can result in less flavor and tenderness. Always allow time for marinade absorption.
• Too much oil: Using too much oil can lead to soggy tenders. Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken for that perfect crunch.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many tenders at once can lower the oil temperature. Cook in batches to maintain a crispy texture.
• Not using a thermometer: Failing to check the internal temperature can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Aim for 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking releases juices. Letting them rest helps keep them moist and flavorful.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe

• Cool the tenders completely before freezing.
• Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers; they last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place tenders on a lined baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Use microwave-safe plates and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in short intervals until warm but note that they may lose crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add tenders and cook until heated through, turning occasionally for even crisping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the crispiest chicken tenders.

What makes this the Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe?

The secret lies in marinating the chicken in dill pickle juice and using a mix of cornstarch and flour for coating, which enhances crunchiness.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour while keeping other ingredients unchanged.

How long does it take to prepare Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe?

The total time is approximately 46 minutes, including preparation and cooking times.

What dipping sauces pair well with these chicken tenders?

These tenders go great with honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing, giving you versatility based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With its crunchy exterior and juicy interior, it appeals to all ages. Feel free to customize by adding spices or serving with different sauces!